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Stakeholders demand robust data protection, cybersecurity measures

By Adeyemi Adepetun
04 December 2024   |   3:01 am
Stakeholders have emphasised the importance of prioritising robust data protection and cybersecurity measures to safeguard sensitive information and ensure digital resilience.
Data Protection

Stakeholders have emphasised the importance of prioritising robust data protection and cybersecurity measures to safeguard sensitive information and ensure digital resilience.
  
This comes amidst growing concerns about data breaches and cyberattacks that can have far-reaching consequences for individuals and organizations.
  


During the 12th edition of the Nigeria ICT Impact CEO Forum (NIICF) held over the weekend with the theme: ‘Strengthening Data Protection, Cloud Infrastructure and Cyber Security’, Chief Executive Officer of Digital Reality, Ike Nnamani, stressed the importance of cybersecurity in the context of data localisation.
  
“While we’re exploring ways to strengthen local hosting, cybersecurity is paramount. Without robust security measures, mandating data localisation risks compromising sensitive information among others. It’s crucial to have open discussions about the necessary infrastructure and policies to ensure the secure management of critical sovereign data,” he said.
  
Nnamani emphasised the need for a government-led approach to creating a secure digital ecosystem.
 
“We can’t ignore the importance of cybersecurity when discussing data localisation. Before promoting local hosting, we must prioritise the protection of sensitive data. The recent events highlight the government’s commitment to securing critical sovereign data. While I support this initiative, we must ensure that we have the right safeguards in place,” he added.
  
He called for government support in developing comprehensive cybersecurity frameworks, providing incentives for businesses to invest in security measures, and allocating resources for research and development in cybersecurity.
  
Also in his remark, the Chief Executive Officer, Net Access System Limited, Lekan Balogun, highlighted the importance of strengthening data protection, cloud infrastructure, and cybersecurity, especially in light of the increasing reliance on the internet and digital services.
  
He emphasised the need for robust data protection measures to safeguard sensitive information in an era of growing cyber threats. The company stressed the importance of investing in necessary policies, infrastructure, and expertise to ensure a secure digital ecosystem.
  
Further, Balogun highlighted the critical role of skilled professionals in addressing cybersecurity challenges. The company called for measures to retain and empower these professionals, including through internship programs and management training initiatives.
  
On his part, the Chief Executive Officer, VDT Communications, Abiodun Omoniyi, expressed his company’s commitment to advancing secure and efficient digital solutions, aligning with the goals of the forum.
  
Omoniyi stressed the importance of strengthening digital infrastructure, deploying data privacy measures, and fortifying cybersecurity to build a resilient digital future for Africa.

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